Online Reporter
Debra Matabvu in MBABANE, Eswatini
ZIMBABWE and Eswatini must continue to strengthen bilateral ties to boost socio-economic development for their people and for the benefit of future generations, President Mnangagwa has said.
Speaking at a State banquet held in his honour here last night, the President called for stronger partnerships in business, tourism and cultural exchanges.
President Mnangagwa is in Eswatini for a State visit, where he is expected to officially open the 57th Eswatini International Trade Fair today, which coincides with the country’s national day.
President Mnangagwa will also attend the Umhlanga Reed Dance ceremony.
“I recall with fond memories the latest State visit to Zimbabwe in 2023, during which we explored our shared desire to recalibrate and elevate our cooperation for the mutual benefit of our respective economies and peoples,” President Mnangagwa said.
“This visit should therefore give impetus to strengthening synergies between our two countries.
“Our officials are called upon to move with speed to revive the joint economic and technical cooperation framework towards propelling the implementation of agreed points of action.
“Partnerships in agriculture, tourism, trade, education, science, innovation and technology development, as well as in agriculture, should receive our focused attention.
“Our peoples are called upon to take full advantage of the Eswatini Airlines direct flight to Harare, which creates scope for increased business, tourism, as well as people-to-people exchanges.”
President Mnangagwa also invited the people of Eswatini to invest and visit Zimbabwe.
“Your Majesty and dear brother, Zimbabwe is open for business,” he added.
“We are a friend to all and an enemy to none. Our country is a safe and secure destination and a place to visit, a place to invest and a place to live and also to name.
“Come and experience a world of wonders and the great Mosi-oa-Tunya, which the British could not pronounce …
“They named our Mosi-oa-Tunya after their Queen Victoria … We thus stand ready to welcome those who wish to explore the commercial activities that exist in our country, Zimbabwe.”
He also urged Africans to work together to develop the continent.
“Despite close to 25 years of illegal economic sanctions imposed by subversive enemies, coupled with the global shocks of climate change, Zimbabwe continues to realise its delicate development milestones in all sectors,” he added.
“The development of our respective countries and the continent of Africa is our duty and responsibility. Others are welcome to assist us based on our defined priorities and that which is good for improving the quality of life of our own people.”
He also called on Africans to be proud of their heritage and culture.
“We should never be apologetic of who we are, what created us, and what has created others. And we should always stand tall and be proud of our heritage, our culture and the vision for a better future for generations to come.”
He thanked Eswatini for its unwavering support in condemning and calling for the removal of illegal sanctions imposed by the West.
He also called for a just and fair global order, while renewing calls for reforms to the United Nations, in line with the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration.
The Ezulwini Consensus is the African Union’s common position on the United Nations Security Council reform, advocating for increased African representation to correct historical underrepresentation
President Mnangagwa welcomed Eswatini’s pledge to back Zimbabwe’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2027–2028 term, describing it as a show of confidence and solidarity.
Speaking at the same occasion, King Mswati III applauded Government for the various policies being implemented to improve the lives and livelihoods of the Zimbabwean people.
He commended the various policies being implemented by the Government, such as Zimbabwe is open for business drive and Vision 2030, which he says have accelerated development in Zimbabwe.
He also said Eswatini will take leaf from Zimbabwe.
Online Reporter